Brewer's home was destroyed in the explosion, but the home of his next door neighbor, Sara Jones, was also a total loss.

Neighbor's Home is Collateral Damage to Suicide Explosion

In a violent suicidal act a McKinney man blew up his home Friday afternoon. And in the process of taking his own life, he also completely changed the lives of his neighbors. (Published Sunday, Apr 4, 2010)

"I think at this point it's just trying to tell yourself that these are possessions and ... everything can be replaced," said Jones.

Jones was at work Friday when she learned the alarm sensors at her home had been triggered. When she discovered the house was actually on fire, she rushed home.

Massive House Explosion in McKinney

"I was pretty much hysterical, then I saw the helicopters flying around as I got closer," Jones said.

After learning Brewer started the fire, Jones was in disbelief.

"It's just, I think, shocking, because I’ve seen Tab. I mean, I’ve talked to him. He's seemed kind of kooky or odd, but never violent," Jones said.

As Jones worked to salvage what she could from her home, she said the situation had become a little overwhelming.

"I need a list of, like, here's what you do now and I don't really know what to do, so it's really shocking still," Jones said.

Homeowners insurance is taking care of the possessions, and Jones said friends and family are helping with the rest.

"Our community has been amazing. I mean, I don't even think I’ve met some of these people and they're just awesome, so it was really touching," Jones said.

Preliminary reports released by the city on Monday show the master bathroom and master bedroom closet were doused with gasoline, that filled the spaces with combustible vapor, and the vapor was ignited by the discharge of a firearm.

An autopsy will determine if Brewer shot himself with a rifle found near his body in the same area of the home.

Fire investigators say Brewer’s ex-wife and five children are now staying with family members.